The Trucial States of the
Persian Gulf coast granted the UK control of their defense and foreign
affairs in 19th century treaties. In 1971, six of these states - Abu
Zaby, 'Ajman, Al Fujayrah, Ash Shariqah, Dubayy, and Umm al Qaywayn -
merged to form the United Arab Emirates (UAE). They were joined in 1972
by Ra's al Khaymah. The UAE's per capita GDP is on par with those of
leading West European nations. Its generosity with oil revenues and its
moderate foreign policy stance have allowed the UAE to play a vital
role in the affairs of the region. Arabic is the official language;
Persian,
English,
Hindi, and Urdu are also spoken.